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Houston, TX, USA to San Marcos, TX, USA from $11: 9 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Houston, United States of America
to
San Marcos, United States of America

How to Get from Houston to San Marcos: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$11 by trainBest price
267 kmDistance
2h 41m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Houston to San Marcos with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
4h  39m
Estimated price
$21-95
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
7h  42m
Estimated price
$11-174
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 267 km
Duration: 2h 41m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  41m
Estimated price
$30-45
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
5h  41m
Estimated price
$33-113
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
5h  10m
Estimated price
$96-366
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
5h  51m
Estimated price
$110-211
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
5h  26m
Estimated price
$115-210
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
6h  9m
Estimated price
$212-333
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
5h  24m
Estimated price
$213-214
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Houston to San Marcos

The journey from Houston's bustling urban landscape to San Marcos' scenic riverbanks offers a delightful contrast between city life and the serene charm of Texas' small towns.

Best Neighborhoods in San Marcos

San Marcos offers a variety of neighborhoods each with its own charm.

Downtown San Marcos
• Vibrant dining and nightlife options await.
• Historic architecture adds character and charm.
Meadow Lakes
• Scenic lakeside views enhance relaxation.
• Close to outdoor recreational activities.
River Oaks
• Family-friendly atmosphere is welcoming.
• Access to beautiful parks and trails.

Best Times To Visit San Marcos's Attractions

Timing your visits to San Marcos attractions can enhance your experience.

San Marcos River
Visit early morning on weekdays for peaceful tranquility and fewer crowds.
Wonder World Cave
Opt for late afternoon tours to enjoy smaller groups and cooler temperatures.
Texas State University
Weekdays during the academic year allow for quieter campus exploration.

San Marcos Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Marcos enjoys a warm climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters, making it an inviting destination year-round. Spring and fall are particularly pleasant times to visit, as the comfortable temperatures enhance outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Dining Recommendation

Consider visiting the locally-loved restaurant, The Root Cellar Cafe, where the farm-to-table philosophy shines through, showcasing fresh, seasonal ingredients unique to the region. Here, the laid-back atmosphere and emphasis on homemade dishes create a distinct culinary experience that contrasts beautifully with Houston's diverse and fast-paced dining scene.

Houston - San Marcos operators

Explore transport companies operating between Houston and San Marcos, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from Downtown Houston to Austin Eastside Bus Plaza

Average Duration
2h 55m
Estimated price
$17.4-17.41

Bus from Austin Eastside Bus Plaza to San Marcos

Average Duration
44m
Estimated price
$17.42-95.7

Bus from San Antonio Bus Station to San Marcos

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
$17.43-95.5
Contact phone
+1 888 358 6762
Website
tornadobus.com

Bus from Tornado Bus Co - Houston Airline Dr to Austin

Average Duration
2h 57m
Estimated price
$15.59-17.44

Bus from Austin to San Marcos - Mazatlan Restaurant

Average Duration
30m
Estimated price
$17.45-95.5
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Houston to San Antonio Amtrak Station

Average Duration
5h 10m
Estimated price
$9.54-110

Train from San Antonio Amtrak Station to San Marcos Amtrak

Average Duration
1h 32m
Estimated price
$11-955
Plane Show flights
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Houston Hobby Apt (HOU) to Austin (AUS)

Average Duration
58m
Estimated price
$951-952

Plane from Houston Hobby Apt (HOU) to San Antonio (SAT)

Average Duration
1h 3m
Estimated price
$2160-953
Website
united.com

Plane from Houston (IAH) to Austin (AUS)

Average Duration
1h 1m
Estimated price
$218-219

Plane from Houston (IAH) to San Antonio (SAT)

Average Duration
1h 8m
Estimated price
$110-950

Plane from Houston (IAH) to Victoria (VCT)

Average Duration
1h 2m
Estimated price
$114-115

Houston to San Marcos: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Houston and San Marcos offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Experience the scenic drive from Houston to San Marcos, covering a distance of 166 miles in just under 2 hours and 41 minutes. As you hit the road, be prepared to witness the charming Texas landscape unfold before your eyes. 💸 The cost of traveling by car from Houston to San Marcos ranges from $30 to $45, offering a budget-friendly option for a convenient and enjoyable road trip. Plan your route wisely to include pit stops at local diners or points of interest along the way.
Average price
$30 - $45
🚆 The train journey from Houston to San Marcos is a convenient option, despite the lack of a direct route. 🛤️ The trip includes a transfer at San Antonio Amtrak Station and lasts approximately 7 hours and 42 minutes. 🎟️ Train services provided by Amtrak operate between Houston and San Marcos, offering travelers a comfortable and scenic ride. 💵 Ticket prices for this route range from $11 to $174, making it an affordable transportation choice for many. 🌄 Sit back, relax, and enjoy the Texas landscape as you travel from Houston to San Marcos by train. 🚂 With a bit of planning and the right ticket, you can easily reach your destination in under 8 hours, ready to explore all that San Marcos has to offer.
Departure Point
Houston station
Arrival Point
San Marcos Amtrak station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your train trip from Houston to San Marcos, you may be using Amtrak. On board, you'll find a café car where you can purchase light meals, snacks, and beverages. For a more substantial meal, consider bringing your own picnic or purchasing items at the station before departure as the café offerings may be limited.
• On Amtrak trains for this route, seating options typically include Coach (Economy), Business Class, and First Class. The Coach class offers spacious comfortable seating, while Business Class provides larger seats with additional legroom and complimentary snacks. Consider upgrading to Business Class for a more enjoyable travel experience.
• For your trip, you'll be traveling with Amtrak (amtrak.com) or Texas Eagle (amtrak.com). Upon arriving in San Marcos, you can find that the station is equipped with basic services such as restrooms. However, it's advisable to check in advance about luggage storage options as they may vary by station.
🛫 Flying from Houston Hobby Airport to Austin Airport is a quick and convenient way to travel from Houston to San Marcos. The direct flight operated by Southwest Airlines takes just 55 minutes. ✈️ Upon arrival at Austin Airport, travelers can easily rent a car or take a shuttle to continue the journey to San Marcos. The drive from Austin to San Marcos typically takes around 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic.
Departure Point
Houston Hobby Apt Airport
Arrival Point
Austin Airport
🚌 To travel from Houston to San Marcos by bus, you will need to make a transfer at Austin Eastside Bus Plaza, as there is no direct route available. The journey, with transfers, typically takes around 4 hours and 39 minutes. 🛣️ The total distance for the trip is approximately 308 miles, with a route that involves 2 transfers along the way. The first step includes a bus towards Los Angeles with Greyhound, followed by a second step towards Dallas, and finally a third step towards San Marcos with Capital Area Rural Transportation System. 💰 Bus ticket prices between Houston and San Marcos can range from $21 to $95.
Departure Point
Downtown Houston station
Arrival Point
San Marcos station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Make sure to plan for a stopover: Since there is no direct bus from Houston to San Marcos, your journey will require transfers at the Austin Eastside Bus Plaza. Check the departure and arrival times on Flixbus for the Houston to Austin leg and the Capital Area Rural Transportation System (CARTS) for the Austin to San Marcos connection at ridecarts.com
• Bring snacks and entertainment for the transfer: The total travel time from Houston to San Marcos, including the transfer, is around 4h 39m. Pack some snacks and a good book or download movies in advance to keep yourself entertained during the journey.
• Upon arrival at San Marcos station, familiarize yourself with the local transit options: The San Marcos station is serviced by CARTS, offering connections to local destinations. Consider downloading the station map beforehand, which can help navigate your next steps and ensure you catch any connecting transit easily. Further info on services can be found at ridecarts.com

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Houston to San Marcos.

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The cheapest way to travel from Houston to San Marcos is by driving. The distance between the two cities is approximately 165 miles, and it takes around 2 hours and 41 minutes to complete the journey. The estimated cost of gas for this trip is between $30 and $45, depending on the fuel efficiency of your vehicle.
The fastest way to travel from Houston to San Marcos is to drive. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 41 minutes, depending on the traffic conditions. Taking a car also gives you the flexibility to make stops along the way and explore any attractions or landmarks you come across. The estimated cost of gas for the round trip is around $30 to $45.
The distance between Houston and San Marcos is approximately 156 miles. However, if you are traveling by road, the actual road distance is slightly longer at 166 miles. This is an estimate and may vary depending on the exact route taken. It is important to allow for additional travel time due to traffic and road conditions.
The best way to travel from Houston to San Marcos without a car is by taking a bus. There are several bus companies that operate routes between the two cities, including Greyhound and Megabus. The journey takes approximately 4 hours and 39 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Bus tickets range in price from $20 to $95, depending on the time and date of travel, so it is best to book in advance to secure the best fare.
The average travel time from Houston to San Marcos is around 4 hours and 39 minutes, including transfers. However, the actual duration may vary depending on traffic conditions and the chosen mode of transportation. It is recommended to plan for potential delays and allocate sufficient travel time to reach your destination.
There are numerous accommodation options available in San Marcos. You can choose from a wide range of 248+ hotels, providing various amenities and price ranges. The prices for hotels in San Marcos start at $42 per night. It is recommended to research and book your accommodation in advance to secure the best deals and availability based on your preferences and budget.
Yes, you can drive from Houston to San Marcos. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 166 miles. It usually takes around 2 hours and 41 minutes to complete the journey by car.
Yes, there is no direct bus from Houston to San Marcos. However, there are bus services that depart from Houston Downtown and arrive at San Marcos via Austin Eastside Bus Plaza. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 4 hours and 39 minutes.
To catch the bus from Houston to San Marcos you will need to go to the Houston Downtown station. This is where the Flixbus USA operates its bus services for this route. The exact location of the Houston Downtown station can be found on their website or by contacting their customer service. Just make sure to arrive early to the station to ensure you have enough time to board the bus before departure.
The Houston to San Marcos bus operated by Flixbus USA arrives at the San Marcos station. San Marcos station is conveniently located in downtown San Marcos, making it easy for passengers to access nearby attractions and accommodations. Upon arrival at the station, passengers can take advantage of public transportation options or arrange for a taxi or ride-share service to their final destination. The San Marcos station provides a convenient and accessible arrival point for travelers coming from Houston.
To get from Houston to San Marcos the cheapest option is to drive. The drive takes approximately 2 hours and 41 minutes and the cost is estimated to be between $30 and $45 depending on gas prices and vehicle efficiency. Another option is to take a bus, which typically costs between $20 and $30 and takes around 3 to 4 hours. There is a Greyhound bus that operates between the two cities multiple times a day. Flying is the fastest option, with a flight duration of around 45 minutes, but it is often more expensive than driving or taking a bus.
Southwest Airlines is the primary airline that offers flights between Houston and San Marcos. The flights operate from Houston Hobby Airport to Austin Airport, which is the closest major airport to San Marcos. The airline provides multiple flight options, making it convenient for travelers to choose a suitable time to fly. It is recommended to check the airline's website or use a flight booking platform to find the most up-to-date information and book tickets.
The fastest way to get from Houston to San Marcos is by taking a direct flight from Houston Hobby Apt Airport to Austin Airport, which takes around 50 minutes. Southwest Airlines offers flights from Houston Hobby Apt Airport to Austin Airport. From the Austin Airport, you can take a taxi or ride-sharing service to reach San Marcos, which is approximately a 30-minute drive.
The flight from Houston to San Marcos typically takes around 50 minutes. This is based on the quickest direct flight from Houston Hobby Apt Airport to Austin Airport. However, it's important to note that flight times can vary depending on factors such as weather conditions and air traffic. It's always a good idea to check with the airline for the most accurate and up-to-date information on flight duration.
Trains from Houston to San Marcos arrive at the San Marcos Amtrak station. San Marcos Amtrak station is conveniently located in downtown San Marcos, making it easily accessible for travelers. It is recommended to check the Amtrak schedule for specific departure and arrival times, as well as any necessary transfers. The station is equipped with amenities such as waiting areas and restrooms to ensure a comfortable journey.
There is no direct train between Houston and San Marcos. The most convenient option would be to take a train from Houston to San Antonio, and then transfer to a bus or another mode of transportation to reach San Marcos. The journey can take approximately 7 hours and 42 minutes, including transfers. It is recommended to check the schedules and availability of trains and buses before planning your trip.
To catch the train from Houston to San Marcos you will need to go to the Houston station. Train services on this route are operated by Amtrak. Be sure to check the train schedule and make a reservation in advance, as availability may vary. The train journey from Houston to San Marcos offers a comfortable and scenic way to travel between the two cities.
The cost of a train ticket from Houston to San Marcos can range from $11 to $174, depending on the class of service and if it's a one-way or round trip ticket. The prices can vary depending on the time of travel, availability, and any promotions or discounts that may be available. It's recommended to check with the specific train operator or travel websites to get the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information for your desired travel dates.
The cost of a bus ticket from Houston to San Marcos can range from $21 to $95. The price can vary depending on factors such as the bus company, the time of day, and the type of ticket you choose. It is recommended to check with different bus companies and compare prices to find the best deal for your trip.
The cost to drive from Houston to San Marcos typically ranges from $30 to $45, depending on factors such as the type of vehicle and current gas prices. The distance between the two cities is approximately 185 miles, and the average travel time is about 2 hours and 41 minutes. It is advisable to plan your trip with a budget for gas and any toll fees that may apply along the way.

Trips from Houston